New Orleans, or the Big Easy, is located in the heart of America’s South in southeastern Louisiana, off the Mississippi River. Known for its reliably fantastic food and fun, NOLA holds it down as the South’s premier party town.
Before the disastrous Hurricane Katrina in 2005 that caused $108 billion worth of property damage and claimed the lives of almost 2000 people, New Orleans was the most populous parish in Louisiana.
New Orleans was founded in 1718 by the French Mississippi Company, under the leadership of Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville, the French governor of Louisiana. An important port during The Revolutionary War, New Orleans is a staple in American history. From the Battle of New Orleans to its role in the Atlantic slave trade (as both a port and settlement for freed persons of color) the BIG EASY is a representative of the “Deep South.”
Famous for its shotgun houses, bungalow-style architecture, and Creole cottages, New Orleans has an abundance of unique and historic roots.
The French Quarter, aka the Vieux Carre, is New Orleans’ oldest neighborhood. The district was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1965 and is a prime attraction for those visiting the city, as well as residents. Jackson Square, designed by architect and landscaper Louis H Pilie, is a gated but public park that spans a city block and is located at the front of the French Quarter.
The Cathedral-Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France, called the St. Louis Cathedral, is among the oldest cathedrals in the US. Opened in 1794, the cathedral is said to be haunted by Antonio de Sedella, a priest whose body is buried within the church. The St. Louis Cathedral has survived a dynamite bombing in 1909, the New Orleans Hurricane of 1915 and Hurricane Katrina.
Aside from its historical features and venues, the NOLA is also known for its 24/7 nightlife, filled with moving live music and a huge array of
cuisines that mirrors its blend of French, African and American heritage. Dooky Chase’s is widely respected because of its 92-year-old chef, Leah Chase. Her menu is considered to be more Creole-soul rather than French-Creole. Foodies can partake in gumbo, shrimp Clemenceau, trout topped with blue crab, and yes-yes fried chicken. Two Sisters in Da East, on North Derbigny Street, opened by the Finister family, brings their delicious menu features of oxtails, pork chops and stuffed bell peppers.
Once your appetite has been satisfied, it’s time to “shake that money-maker!” Saturn Bar provides an amazing view from the upstairs balcony. The official host of a monthly Saturday night Mob Dance Party, the Saturn, also brings an evening of 60’s vinyl swag anyone can enjoy. The Metropolitan Nightclub is the premier club in the city. Equipped with flat screens, lights, smoke machines, 11 bar stations, VIP table service and valet parking, The Metro is OFF THE CHAIN!
From the mouth of New Orleans’ favorite son, Louis Armstrong, “…won’t you please come back?” WELCOME to the BIG EASY!